Gayle, Russell named in T20 squad

BRIDGETOWN, CMC:

Jamaican batting sensation Chris Gayle and all-rounder AndrE Russell have both been included in the 15-man West Indies squad for the Twenty20 World Cup in India.

The squad, which is yet to be named officially by the West Indies Cricket Board, includes embattled off-spinner Sunil Narine who is currently banned from bowling internationally.

Narine is expected to undergo testing on his action at Loughborough University in England next month, before confirming his spot on the side.

EYES ON GAYLE

All eyes will be on Gayle, after he sparked controversy during the recent Australia Big Bash with his now infamous 'don't blush baby' live television interview where he appeared to

openly flirt with Channel TEN's Mel McLaughlin.

The 36-year-old left-hander has played in every T20 World Cup since the inaugural tournament in South Africa eight years ago, when he announced himself in the format with a stunning 100 against the hosts in Johannesburg.

He has since become arguably the most valued commodity on the global T20 circuit, and his presence will ensure West Indies will be installed as one of the early favourites.

Only recently, he blasted a 12-ball half-century in the Big Bash to equal the record for the fastest ever 50 in T20s.

Russell has become one of the most sought after T20 players and last year plied his trade in the Indian Premier League, South Africa's Ram Slam, the Caribbean Premier League, the Bangladesh Premier League and the Big Bash.

West Indies are set to play in Group One alongside reigning champions Sri Lanka, South Africa, England and yet-t0-be determined qualifier.

West Indies - Darren Sammy (captain), Lendl Simmons, Chris Gayle, Darren Bravo, Dwayne Bravo, Keiron Pollard, Marlon Samuels, Denesh Ramdin, Samuel Badree, Sulieman Benn, Sunil Narine, AndrE Fletcher, Jason Holder, Jerome Taylor, AndrE Russell.